Prior to Sunday’s clash, India had never defeated South Africa in a World Cup game. But, unlike Pakistan, who could not break their winless jinx against India, the Indians did not allow history to come in their way as their registered a quite magnificent 130-run win against South Africa to complete turnaround their fortunes Down Under. They went into the World Cup having been winless since December, but now have two triumphs in as many World Cup games spread across two weeks. Shikhar Dhawan, who not long back, was struggling to score a run, set up India’s victory with a thunderous 137, aided by Ajinkya Rahane, who made a splendid 79. The bowlers also chipped in as India easily romped home.

On a day of high expectancy, India batted first after winning the toss. They, however, were delivered a big blow when Rohit Sharma was run out with a brilliant direct hit from AB de Villiers. Dhawan and Virat Kohli then steadied things for India. Dhawan continued from where he left off against Pakistan. He was under pressure having had a horrendous tour of South Africa, but showed great mental strength to turn things around. The duo played with a lot of caution, and took India’s score to 136 before Kohli fell to Imran Tahir for 46 from 60 trying to accelerate that score.

The partnership between Dhawan and Rahane was the one that shifted the momentum completely in India’s favour. Rahane came in and started middling the ball right from the first ball, and took on the South African bowlers irrespective of the field placings. Rahane’s effort allowed Dhawan to take his time and settle in. And, once that happened, he meted out punitive treatment to the South African bowlers. Dhawan went on to complete a well deserved hundred, and carried on even after that. He was eventually dismissed for 137 from 146 balls, having hit 16 fours and two sixes. At the other end, Rahane made 79 from 60 balls as India crossed 300 again.

Chasing a stiff target, the Indian bowlers put South Africa under pressure right from the start. Quinton de Kock played a loose stroke to Shami early on, Hashim Amla fell into the short trap set by Mohit Sharma. The only time South Africa looked in some sort of control was when Faf du Plessis and AB de Villiers were at the crease. However, India’s sharp fielding brought an unexpected end to de Villiers’ innings as a Mohit throw caught him shot. The dangerous David Miller was also run out for 22, this time from a throw, this time from Umesh Yadav. Faf went on to complete a hundred, but was also dismissed soon after. Ravichandran Ashwin chipped in with three wickets as India registered a memorable 130-run triumph.